Social media influencer Julz Goddard, more commonly known as YesJulz, was dropped from two upcoming appearances in Toronto after a tweet of hers on Thursday night was roundly criticized for using racist language. Women Inspiring Passion and Purpose (WIPP Toronto) and Utopia Music Fest both released statements on Friday morning saying that they would no longer be working with her for their upcoming events. The tweet in question, now deleted is below.
You deleted the tweet, but screenshots are forever, dumb ass. @YesJulz pic.twitter.com/cucdwcAKhV
— Monique Judge (@thejournalista) May 5, 2017
In a series of followup tweets, Goddard said her intentions were misunderstood, saying, "Guys, I was calling out some1 who suggested that I wear this t-shirt he made. I clearly wouldn't wear it. That was what the tweet meant. Sorry if I offended anyone, that was and never is my intention."
#uTOpia2017 pic.twitter.com/xNBtgctUXi
— Marcus Graham (@Marcusgrxham) May 5, 2017
An important Msg from our team at WIPP. pic.twitter.com/MnEofXP37o
— WIPP (@WIPPTORONTO) May 5, 2017
"uTOpia Music Fest prides itself in bringing together the urban community in positive ways while celebrating the raw talents of emerging artists in Toronto without any form of hate or descrimination," the festival said in their statement on Friday. The festival declined to add further comment.
A representative from WIPP, emailed The FADER and pointed to their statement last night, and added "We are here to empower women through our content and have no tolerance for racial insensitivity."
Representatives for YesJulz were not immediately available for comment.